Concept design, engineering completed for first electric tanker

The following is text of a news release from Asahi Tanker Co. Ltd.:

(TOKYO) — Asahi Tanker Co. Ltd., together with its partner Exeno-Yamamizu Corp. Tokyo, has jointly developed A new domestic shipping tanker design which incorporates zero-emission electric propulsion.

In anticipation of future adaptations to regulatory conformity, ClassNK has been appointed for technical advice on ship design and electric propulsion.

Commercial model development of the "e5" design is underway for all bunker supply vessels trading in Tokyo Bay. The target of the first vessel launching is set for the fourth quarter of 2020. The project is also working for creating “e5” coastal vessels which would require longer cruising range.

The “e5” concept creates solutions to issues such as shortage of crews, vessel demand balance and environmental regulation, thus contributing to the sustainability of the domestic shipping industry. The project is confident that by utilizing the “e5” concept of ocean transport that a stable energy supply will be achieved.

The new vessel design and related project infrastructure development will be known as “e5,” which captures the five core elements of:

1. Electrification
The ship's core energy source will be electricity, achieved by way of adopting lithium ion batteries.

2. Environment
Emission controls such as CO2, NOx, and SOx, together with minimizing noise and vibration along with improvements in vessel operation and environmental controls at sea and in port.

3. Economics
Achieving economic efficiency through installment of IoT and digital tools coupled with improved propulsion performance from using electricity.

4. Efficiency
Simple hull construction and installment of automated equipment can reduce work load for the crew.

5. Evolution
Digitalization and technological advancement leading to the most advanced design concept for the future of domestic shipping.

(1) Total length: 196 feet
(2) Overall width: 33 feet
(3) Propulsion machinery: (2) 350-kW azimuth thrusters, one 130-kW bow thruster
(4) Gross tonnage: 499 tons
(5) Cargo tank capacity: Approximately 1,300 cubic meters
(6) Vessel registration: Japan
(7) Concept designer: Groot Ship Design (hull)

By Professional Mariner Staff